GO!Durban
The GO!Durban Cycle Academy honored Mandela’s legacy by hosting a special Mandela Day Community Ride event to celebrate unity, community, and active mobility. This event held at the KwaMashu Bike Park brought together 67 young riders who paid tribute to Mandela’s 67 years of service through cycling, a sport that fosters connection and empowerment.
In true Madiba spirit private stakeholders partnered with the GO!Durban Academy to make the day extra special and memorable for the Academy’s youngsters. Just Property gave away 60 cycling helmets, Eskilz College pledged bursaries for two learners, Emond Auto handed over stationery worth R40 000, Pedal Power and the Road Accident Fund gave 67 riding bibs, lights, socks and snack packs and Encore provided 100 sporting energy drinks to the Academy.
EThekwni Transport Authority Acting Director, Nelisiwe Zama expressed gratitude to the sponsor partners and encouraged other private organisations to also lend a helping hand to the Academy. “I call on and challenge other businesses to get involved and give something no matter how big or small to the Academy for the benefit of our youngsters across all our sites.”
The community ride was kicked off with a safety talk and ensuring that the 67 riders have their safety gear on. As a symbol of unity, perseverance, and the power of small actions for collective impact, the riders showcased their cycling skills for a minute on the Velosolutions Pump Track. Thereafter they proceeded to ride in the vibrant streets of KwaMashu for 67 minutes.
Zama highlighted the importance of cycling. “It is important that our communities learn how to cycle as cycling forms part of the Integrated Public Transport Network. There are cycling routes around the city and we encourage people to use them.”
The GO!Durban Academy Bike Parks are located in Inanda, Cornubia, Chesterville, Wentworth, KwaDabeka, and KwaMashu. Cyle safety is the main priority at the Academy and regular comprehensive safety training programs are conducted with the youth and community members.
GO!Durban is the future of Durban. It is the realisation of a safer, sustainable and more liveable city for locals as well as visitors.
